Preventing dishes from breaking in the dishwasher involves taking some precautions and using best practices to ensure your dishes remain intact and undamaged. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
Load the dishwasher carefully: Proper loading is crucial to avoid dishes clattering against each other during the wash cycle. Place plates, bowls, and other items with enough space between them to prevent direct contact.
Avoid overcrowding: Resist the temptation to overload the dishwasher, as it increases the likelihood of dishes hitting each other and breaking. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the maximum capacity of your dishwasher.
Secure lightweight items: Lightweight and delicate items like plastic containers, lids, and cups can easily flip over or move during the wash. Position them on the top rack or use dedicated holders, so they don't come into contact with other dishes.
Separate glassware: Avoid placing glassware like wine glasses and delicate cups near each other in the dishwasher. Use the designated slots on the top rack meant for glasses or stemware. If you have a lot of glassware, consider washing some of them by hand.
Use the proper dishwasher detergent: Choose a dishwasher detergent that is specifically designed for your dishwasher model and the type of water you have (hard water vs. soft water). Using the right detergent will ensure optimal cleaning performance without causing damage to your dishes.
Check the dishwasher racks: Regularly inspect the dishwasher racks for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any broken tines or rusty areas, consider replacing the rack to prevent it from damaging your dishes.
Secure lids and small items: Secure lids of containers and small items like baby bottle parts, measuring spoons, and kitchen utensils in the utensil basket or on the top rack to prevent them from moving around and potentially causing damage.
Avoid washing non-dishwasher safe items: Be cautious about washing items that are not dishwasher safe. These may include wooden utensils, delicate crystal, hand-painted ceramics, and certain plastics. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations before putting an item in the dishwasher.
Use gentle cycles: When dealing with delicate or fragile items, opt for gentle or delicate cycles that use less aggressive water pressure and temperature to reduce the risk of breakage.
Inspect dishes before loading: Check your dishes for any existing cracks or damage before placing them in the dishwasher. Damaged items are more susceptible to breaking during the wash cycle.
By following these tips and treating your dishes with care, you can significantly reduce the chances of them breaking in the dishwasher and extend their lifespan.